Information for students

Find out how to stay safe in rented accommodation during your time at university

If you’re moving into a student home gas safety may not be the first thing you think of, but following our simple tips will help you and your housemates stay safe.

Three top tips that could save your life:

    • Check there is a current Landlord Gas Safety Record for your student property. This means all gas appliances have been checked within the last year by a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer.
    • Install an audible carbon monoxide (CO) alarm – these look like smoke alarms and you can buy them for around £20 at major retail outlets, including DIY stores and supermarkets. Remember to test yours regularly once it’s been installed.
    • Know the six signs of CO poisoning: headaches, nausea, dizziness, breathlessness, collapse and loss of consciousness.

 

Visual representation of the six sign of CO poisoning

 

Unsafe gas appliances can cause gas leaks, fires, explosions and carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. CO can be deadly and is especially dangerous because you can’t see, taste or smell it, and some symptoms mimic the effects of viruses and even a bad hangover. Find out more information about carbon monoxide.

Landlords have a duty to keep their tenants safe and have several duties to their tenants, which are outlined  by the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998  Find out further information about your rights when you rent.

If you suspect a gas emergency in your student property, it’s important you know what actions to take to protect the safety of you and those around you. Find out all about the emergency procedure.

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